Greetings-
While the last week or so has felt like we should be planting peanuts and cotton, of course we know it’s too early for any number of reasons. One is that planting this early could be the “kiss of death” for tomato spotted wilt on peanuts, though I know some who grow for the “green peanut” market who likely have started planting.
The biggest threat to planting now in my wheelhouse has to do not only with tomato spotted wilt on peanuts, but also the likelihood of cooler temperatures. This Easter weekend is a perfect example- with rain and cooler weather in the forecast. Such conditions can slow seed germination and affect growth and vigor of the young seedlings. All of this gives seedborne fungal pathogen and fungal pathogens like Rhizoctonia and Pythium in the soil the chance to punish (right Dr Hand?) the peanut and cotton crops. My advice is to not only consider current conditions before planting, but also the 5-day forecast AND historical likelihood of colder weather.
I’m starting to get questions about peanut fungicide programs. With the help of Dr Joe LaForest, all of the 2023 Peanut Rx cards are available at “Peanutrx.org” under “resources”. Much more information is available as well.
Attached picture is from Cole Moon, who is tired of me telling me how cool his name is, from Bleckley County, sent via Eric Prostko. Young corn is showing vigor and growth problems as well as root issues. Dr Prostko says herbicides are not the issue, but nematodes could be. The only way to know for sure is to take a soil sample and to look for ‘todes. Two samples ideally should be submitted, one from affected areas of the field and one from “good” areas.

Photo Credit Cole Moon